Coal price trends

National Coal Index (NCI) Trends:

• December 2023: The NCI declined by 4.75% to 155.44 points compared to December 2022, indicating sufficient coal availability to meet growing demand.
  Press Information Bureau
• November 2023: The NCI decreased by 17.54% from the previous year, reflecting a strong domestic coal supply.
  Economic Times Energy

Non-Coking Coal Prices:

• In November 2023, the non-coking coal index dropped by 25.07% to 143.52 points compared to November 2022, suggesting ample supply and reduced prices. Economic Times Energy

Coking Coal Prices:

• Conversely, the coking coal index rose by 5.79% in November 2023, reaching 188.39 points, indicating increased demand in metallurgical industries. Economic Times Energy

Global Coal Price Trends:

• Globally, coal prices have experienced fluctuations. After peaking in September 2022, prices have generally trended downward, with a slight decrease of 1.67% since the beginning of 2024. Trading Economics

Factors Influencing Price Trends:

• Supply and Demand: Increased domestic production and reduced imports have led to lower prices.
• Seasonal Variations: Monsoon seasons can affect coal demand and supply dynamics.
• Global Market Conditions: International energy markets and geopolitical events also impact coal prices.

Implications for Industries:

• Cost Management: Industries can benefit from lower non-coking coal prices for power generation and manufacturing.
• Strategic Planning: Understanding price trends aids in budgeting and procurement strategies.

Staying informed about these trends enables businesses to make strategic decisions regarding coal procurement and usage.